(Nov. 13, 2024) — English Avenue and Vine City is notoriously known as “The Bluff,” but for Officer Collins, it is called “home.” Collins has been an officer of the Atlanta Police Department for 13 years and is proud to call the neighborhood her home.
The APD officer moved into the neighborhood five years ago as part of the Atlanta Police Foundation’s (APF) “Secure Neighborhoods Pathways to Homeownership” program. The program, which began in 2017, offers APD sworn officers the opportunity to unique and affordable pathways to in-city residency in strategic neighborhoods throughout the City of Atlanta while serving as neighborhood ambassadors for the purpose of crime deterrence, community engagement and relationship building.
Although she was initially scared to join the program as a “first-time homeowner and a young mother,” Collins decided to take a leap of faith. She mentioned how accommodating APF was during the leasing process and how she would encourage other APD officers to join the program.
When asked about her experience living in the area, she couldn’t stop gushing about how much she loves the community and even participates in the Neighborhood Planning Unit (NPU) meetings. These meetings are the official avenue for residents to express concerns and provide input in developing plans to address the needs of each neighborhood. She mentioned how “safe” she feels in the community and how the neighborhood feels like “one big family.”
Ofc. Collins noted her neighbor is a legacy homeowner; someone who originally lived in the English Avenue community as the Foundation began to build officer homes. The community was asked for their “buy-in” to homes being built specifically for APD officers. Ofc. Collins believes residents now appreciate the officers’ presence. “They feel a lot safer, and to be honest, so do I,” said Collins.
She acknowledged her first few years living in the community were “rough,” but she has seen significant improvements since then. She said crime is almost non-existent where she lives and attributes this to the presence of the officers of the Secure Neighborhood program.
Collins praised the Atlanta Police Foundation, stating if the organization continues its current path; it will truly help make Atlanta a safer city. She talked about how the Foundation guides new homeowners through the process and fosters excitement about homeownership. Additionally, she shared her appreciation for how the APF contributes to the local community through rebuilding efforts.
When asked what advice she would give to officers interested in the program, Collins said she constantly encourages others to join or get on the waiting list. She added she has made many friends through the program.
Officer Collins’ story is a testament to the positive impact of community policing and dedicated support from organizations like the Atlanta Police Foundation. As the neighborhood continues to thrive, her commitment exemplifies how strong partnerships between police and residents can create safer, more unified communities.
To learn more about the Officer Support Program visit, https://atlantapolicefoundation.org/programs/secure-neighborhoods/
Written by APF Communications Intern, Kenya M.